As China takes on the rotating chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) this year, the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area, also known as SCODA, in Qingdao, the nation's sole national-level open platform for local economic and trade cooperation with SCO and Belt and Road Initiative countries, is poised to play a pivotal role. The city will host a range of activities spanning local economic and trade exchanges, investment and trade cooperation, and cultural and artistic showcases.

Key events scheduled for this year include the 22nd Meeting of SCO Culture Ministers, the Meeting of SCO Tourism Department Leaders, and the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference. These gatherings aim to deepen exchanges and cooperation among SCO member states, strengthen cultural ties, boost economic growth, and drive mutual development.

Moreover, the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference will provide a high-end platform for showcasing cooperation opportunities and achievements, fostering win-win cooperation and shared prosperity in economic development, trade and investment, and strengthening industrial collaboration among SCO countries.

As the first tourism and cultural capital of the SCO in China, Qingdao will host 17 events, including the Fourth SCO International Investment and Trade Expo, and the SCO Summer series.

The Fourth SCO International Investment and Trade Expo, the largest and most comprehensive exhibition under the SCO framework, will feature exhibitions showcasing SCO member countries, international consumer goods, and premium products from Shandong, driving regional economic integration and development.

As the first tourism and cultural capital of the SCO in China, Qingdao plans to host 17 major cultural events this year. [Photo/WeChat account: opiononline]